These specific firearms represent a notable variant of the classic Colt 1911 design, manufactured by Para Ordnance (later acquired by Remington). They were typically characterized by high-capacity magazines, often employing a double-stack design, significantly increasing the number of rounds carried compared to the original single-stack 1911. Variants existed in several calibers and configurations, catering to military, law enforcement, and civilian markets.
The enhanced firepower offered a distinct advantage in situations requiring numerous shots. This capability made them popular for competitive shooting and personal defense. Historically, the company’s innovative approach to the 1911 platform influenced subsequent high-capacity pistol designs. This innovation played a role in the broader adoption of double-stack magazines in semi-automatic handguns.
Further exploration will cover specific models, design features, manufacturing history, and their impact on the firearms industry.
1. High-capacity magazines
High-capacity magazines represent a defining characteristic of Para Ordnance 1911 models, distinguishing them from the standard Colt 1911 design. This feature significantly impacted the firearms market, influencing subsequent pistol designs and sparking debates regarding firearm regulation. Understanding the design, functionality, and implications of these magazines is crucial to understanding the legacy of Para Ordnance.
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Double-stack design:
Para Ordnance pioneered the use of double-stack magazines in 1911-style pistols. This design, which arranges cartridges in a staggered two-column format within the magazine, allows for a substantial increase in ammunition capacity without excessively extending the grip length. While offering a tactical advantage, the double-stack design also presented manufacturing challenges related to reliability and feeding.
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Increased firepower:
The most immediate benefit of high-capacity magazines is the increased number of rounds available before reloading. This was particularly appealing to competitive shooters and individuals concerned with self-defense. The enhanced firepower, however, also became a focal point in discussions surrounding gun control and public safety.
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Impact on ergonomics:
While double-stack magazines increased capacity, they also altered the grip profile of the 1911. Para Ordnance addressed this with varying degrees of success across its models, attempting to balance increased capacity with comfortable handling. This led to variations in grip width and shape, catering to different hand sizes and preferences.
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Influence on industry trends:
Para Ordnance’s innovation directly influenced other manufacturers, leading to wider adoption of high-capacity magazines across various pistol platforms. This shift reflects a broader trend in firearms development toward increased capacity, driven by both market demand and perceived tactical advantages.
The integration of high-capacity magazines into the 1911 platform by Para Ordnance marked a pivotal moment in firearms history. It not only enhanced the capabilities of the 1911 but also contributed significantly to the evolution of modern semi-automatic pistol design and sparked ongoing dialogues regarding firearm capacity and its societal implications.
2. Double-stack design
The double-stack magazine represents a pivotal innovation introduced by Para Ordnance to the 1911 platform. This design, arranging cartridges in a staggered two-column configuration within the magazine well, directly addressed the limited capacity of the original single-stack 1911. This modification allowed for a significant increase in the number of rounds carried, offering a substantial tactical advantage in various applications, from competitive shooting to military and law enforcement use. The P14-45, a flagship model, exemplified this, providing 14 rounds of .45 ACP in a relatively compact package, a significant improvement over the standard 7+1 capacity of traditional 1911s.
The implementation of the double-stack design, however, presented engineering challenges. Maintaining reliable feeding and cycling with the increased cartridge count required meticulous design and manufacturing tolerances. Early models occasionally suffered from feeding issues, though subsequent refinements and improved manufacturing processes largely mitigated these problems. The wider grip necessary to accommodate the double-stack magazine also impacted ergonomics. While some shooters appreciated the fuller grip, others found it less comfortable than the slimmer profile of the original 1911. This led Para Ordnance to develop variations in grip size and shape to accommodate different hand sizes and preferences. The P18-9, chambered in 9mm, offered a higher capacity with a slightly smaller grip compared to the .45 ACP models.
The double-stack design’s impact extended beyond Para Ordnance, influencing subsequent pistol designs and establishing higher magazine capacities as a desirable feature. Despite initial challenges, the successful implementation of this design in the 1911 platform demonstrated the feasibility and practicality of high-capacity magazines in semi-automatic pistols, contributing significantly to the evolution of modern handgun design. This innovation ultimately played a role in the broader adoption of double-stack magazines across various pistol platforms and calibers.
3. Various Calibers
Para Ordnance 1911 models distinguished themselves not only through high-capacity magazines but also through the variety of calibers offered. While initially chambered in the classic .45 ACP cartridge, the company expanded its offerings to include 9mm, .40 S&W, and .38 Super, catering to diverse needs and preferences. This caliber diversity expanded the 1911 platform’s versatility, attracting a wider range of users, from law enforcement and military personnel to competitive shooters and civilian gun owners. For instance, the P16-40, chambered in .40 S&W, provided a balance between capacity and stopping power, appealing to law enforcement agencies. The P18-9, in 9mm, offered a higher capacity and reduced recoil, attracting competitive shooters.
The availability of different calibers impacted several aspects of these firearms. 9mm models, due to the smaller cartridge diameter, generally offered higher magazine capacities compared to .45 ACP or .40 S&W variants. This choice provided a significant advantage in scenarios requiring sustained firepower. The .40 S&W models sought to balance increased capacity with the perceived stopping power of a larger caliber, appealing to law enforcement and personal defense markets. Offering .38 Super catered to a niche market, appealing to those seeking a higher-velocity cartridge suitable for competitive shooting. This caliber diversification demonstrated Para Ordnance’s responsiveness to market demands and its commitment to expanding the 1911’s utility beyond its traditional role.
Understanding the various calibers available in Para Ordnance 1911 models is crucial for appreciating their adaptability and impact. The company’s willingness to explore different calibers broadened the appeal and practicality of the 1911 platform, allowing it to remain competitive and relevant in a changing firearms market. This approach influenced other 1911 manufacturers, contributing to the wider adoption of various calibers within this classic platform. The availability of diverse calibers underscores Para Ordnance’s significant role in the evolution of the 1911 from a primarily military sidearm to a versatile platform adaptable to diverse shooting disciplines and preferences.
4. Enhanced Firepower
Enhanced firepower represents a defining characteristic of Para Ordnance 1911 models, distinguishing them from traditional 1911 designs. This advantage stems primarily from the implementation of high-capacity, double-stack magazines, significantly increasing the number of rounds carried. This feature impacted various applications, from military and law enforcement operations to competitive shooting and personal defense. Understanding the components, implications, and historical context of this enhanced firepower is crucial for a comprehensive appreciation of these firearms.
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Increased Capacity
The most direct consequence of the double-stack magazine design was a substantial increase in ammunition capacity. Models like the P14-45, holding 14 rounds of .45 ACP, offered more than double the capacity of standard 1911s. This increase provided a tactical advantage in situations requiring multiple shots, reducing the frequency of reloads and potentially improving survivability in critical incidents. The higher capacity also benefited competitive shooters, minimizing time spent on magazine changes during timed events.
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Tactical Advantages
The increased capacity translated into tangible tactical advantages. In military or law enforcement contexts, the ability to engage multiple targets or sustain fire for longer periods without reloading proved beneficial. In self-defense scenarios, the additional rounds provided a greater margin of error and increased the likelihood of neutralizing a threat. However, this advantage also sparked debates regarding the appropriate level of firepower for civilian ownership.
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Impact on Shooting Disciplines
Enhanced firepower significantly impacted practical shooting competitions. The reduced need for reloads allowed competitors to maintain a higher rate of fire and complete stages more quickly. This contributed to the popularity of Para Ordnance models among competitive shooters, influencing the development of dedicated competition-oriented variants. The increased capacity also impacted training doctrines, emphasizing efficient magazine changes and tactical reload techniques.
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Calibers and Capacity Interplay
The interplay between caliber and magazine capacity played a crucial role in the effectiveness of enhanced firepower. 9mm models generally offered higher capacities due to the smaller cartridge diameter, while .45 ACP and .40 S&W provided a balance between capacity and stopping power. This variety catered to different needs and preferences, allowing users to select a model optimized for their specific requirements.
The enhanced firepower offered by Para Ordnance 1911 models represents a significant development in the evolution of the 1911 platform. The increased capacity provided by double-stack magazines impacted tactical considerations, competitive shooting practices, and the broader conversation surrounding firearm capabilities. This innovation continues to influence modern pistol design, highlighting Para Ordnance’s lasting contribution to the firearms industry.
5. 1911 Platform Variant
Para Ordnance 1911 models represent a significant variant of the original John Browning 1911 design. Understanding this distinction requires examining how Para Ordnance adapted and expanded upon the original platform, influencing subsequent 1911 iterations and the broader handgun market. These modifications, while controversial to some 1911 purists, addressed perceived limitations of the original design, particularly regarding capacity and ergonomics.
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High-Capacity Magazines:
The most defining modification introduced by Para Ordnance was the integration of high-capacity, double-stack magazines. This innovation dramatically increased the round count compared to the original single-stack design, offering a tactical advantage in various applications. This change necessitated modifications to the frame and grip, resulting in a wider profile, a departure from the slim profile favored by some traditional 1911 enthusiasts.
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Ergonomic Adaptations:
To accommodate the wider double-stack magazines, Para Ordnance adapted the 1911’s ergonomics. Grip modifications, including variations in width, texture, and angle, aimed to balance the increased capacity with comfortable handling. These changes, while improving grip for some, altered the feel of the classic 1911, leading to both praise and criticism within the firearms community.
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Caliber Diversification:
Beyond the .45 ACP, Para Ordnance offered models chambered in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .38 Super. This diversification broadened the 1911’s appeal, catering to different shooting disciplines and preferences. This approach, while not exclusive to Para Ordnance, contributed to the wider acceptance of the 1911 platform in calibers beyond its original chambering.
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Light Double Action (LDA) Trigger:
Certain Para Ordnance models featured the LDA trigger system. This modification offered a consistent trigger pull for every shot, unlike the traditional single-action trigger of the 1911. While touted as an improvement in safety and consistency by some, the LDA system deviated significantly from the classic 1911 trigger feel, sparking debate among enthusiasts.
Para Ordnance’s modifications to the 1911 platform, while sometimes contentious, undeniably impacted the design’s evolution. These changes, particularly the integration of high-capacity magazines, influenced other manufacturers and broadened the appeal of the 1911, ensuring its continued relevance in the modern firearms market. The companys willingness to deviate from the original design, while sometimes criticized, ultimately expanded the 1911’s versatility and contributed to its enduring legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding Para Ordnance 1911 models, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What distinguishes Para Ordnance 1911 models from standard 1911s?
The primary distinction lies in the implementation of high-capacity, double-stack magazines, significantly increasing ammunition capacity. Para Ordnance also offered various calibers and ergonomic adaptations.
Question 2: Are Para Ordnance 1911s still in production?
No. Para Ordnance was acquired by Remington, and the brand was discontinued. Remington briefly produced some models, but these are no longer manufactured.
Question 3: What are common calibers found in these models?
Besides the traditional .45 ACP, Para Ordnance 1911s were available in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .38 Super, catering to diverse preferences and applications.
Question 4: Were there reliability issues with early Para Ordnance models?
Early models occasionally experienced feeding problems due to the complexity of the double-stack design. Later production runs generally resolved these issues through improved manufacturing processes.
Question 5: What is the Light Double Action (LDA) trigger system?
The LDA trigger system, found in some models, provides a consistent trigger pull for every shot, unlike the traditional single-action 1911 trigger. This offered perceived advantages in safety and consistency but altered the classic 1911 trigger feel.
Question 6: Where can one find parts and accessories for these firearms?
While new factory parts may be scarce, aftermarket parts and accessories are often available from various suppliers specializing in 1911 components. Used parts may also be available through online marketplaces.
Understanding these key aspects of Para Ordnance 1911 models provides a foundation for informed decisions regarding acquisition, maintenance, and appreciation of these firearms within the broader context of 1911 design and history.
Further sections will delve into specific model comparisons, collecting considerations, and the lasting legacy of Para Ordnance within the firearms industry.
Maintenance and Selection Tips
Proper maintenance and informed selection are crucial for maximizing the performance and longevity of these firearms. The following tips offer guidance for both prospective owners and current users.
Tip 1: Lubrication is Key:
These models, particularly those with high-capacity magazines, benefit from diligent lubrication. Regularly lubricate slide rails, barrel bushing, and other moving parts with a high-quality gun oil to ensure smooth operation and prevent premature wear.
Tip 2: Magazine Maintenance:
Double-stack magazines require regular cleaning and inspection. Disassemble magazines, clean internal components, and check for spring fatigue or follower wear. Proper magazine maintenance ensures reliable feeding and prevents malfunctions.
Tip 3: Ammunition Selection:
Use high-quality ammunition from reputable manufacturers. Avoid reloaded or improperly stored ammunition, as these can compromise reliability and potentially damage the firearm. Select ammunition appropriate for the specific caliber of the firearm.
Tip 4: Grip Selection and Customization:
Given variations in grip size and shape among these models, proper grip selection is crucial for comfortable and controlled shooting. Consider aftermarket grip options to customize the fit and enhance control.
Tip 5: Professional Gunsmithing:
For complex issues or modifications, consult a qualified gunsmith specializing in 1911 platforms. Avoid attempting repairs or modifications beyond one’s skill level, as improper gunsmithing can compromise safety and functionality.
Tip 6: Research Specific Models:
Before acquiring one of these firearms, thoroughly research specific models and their features. Consider caliber, magazine capacity, grip design, and trigger system to select a model that aligns with individual needs and preferences.
Tip 7: Safe Storage Practices:
Always adhere to safe storage practices. Store firearms unloaded and secured in a proper safe or lockbox, separate from ammunition, and inaccessible to unauthorized individuals. Responsible firearm ownership prioritizes safety and prevents accidents.
Adherence to these guidelines ensures optimal performance, reliability, and longevity of these firearms. Informed selection and meticulous maintenance contribute to a safe and rewarding shooting experience.
The concluding section offers final thoughts on the significance and legacy of these firearms within the context of 1911 design and the broader firearms market.
Concluding Remarks
Para Ordnance 1911 models represent a notable chapter in the evolution of the 1911 platform. Their defining feature, the high-capacity double-stack magazine, significantly impacted firearm design and sparked ongoing discussions regarding capacity and its implications. While the Para Ordnance brand is no longer active, its legacy persists, influencing modern pistol designs and continuing to be a topic of interest among firearms enthusiasts and collectors. Exploration of various calibers, ergonomic adaptations, and the innovative LDA trigger system further highlights the company’s willingness to push the boundaries of the 1911 design. Understanding the historical context, technical specifications, and market impact of these firearms provides a comprehensive appreciation of their contribution to the firearms industry.
The impact of Para Ordnance 1911 models extends beyond their technical specifications. Their presence sparked debates concerning firepower, self-defense, and the role of high-capacity firearms in society. Continued examination of these firearms encourages a nuanced understanding of firearms technology, design evolution, and the complex interplay between technological advancement and societal implications. Further research and discussion remain essential for informed perspectives on the role of firearms in history, technology, and contemporary society.